New drivers and alcohol: which rules apply?

For the first three years after obtaining a category B licence, the permitted blood alcohol level is zero: you must not drive after drinking. The ban also applies to people under 21 and professional drivers in the categories listed in the Code.

The special rule for new drivers

The Highway Code sets a specific prohibition for drivers during the first three years after obtaining a category B licence, as well as for anyone under 21 and several professional categories. Article 186-bis prohibits these drivers from driving after consuming alcoholic drinks and while under their influence. This rule is stricter than the general one and does not apply only when driving for work.

Law No. 177 of 25 November 2024 amended some provisions of the Highway Code, but the MIT clarified that blood alcohol limits did not change. Check the current text of Article 186-bis and do not rely on calculations based on the number of drinks: blood alcohol levels vary with quantity, timing, food and personal characteristics. No home calculation can guarantee that you are fit to drive. The safest choice is not to drink before driving.

These drivers do not have the ordinary 0.5 g/l threshold: the Code prohibits driving after consuming alcohol. The rule applies during the first three years after obtaining a category B licence and to drivers under 21; it also covers certain professional categories. The clear choice is not to drink before driving.

• The prohibition applies during the first three years after obtaining a category B licence under the current rules.
• Similar rules apply to other categories listed by law.
• If you have been drinking, arrange another way home and do not drive.

Be aware of the consequences

Consequences depend on the readings and circumstances. For drivers covered by Article 186-bis, the law provides specific penalties even for readings that would not have the same consequences for an ordinary driver. Additional penalties, points deductions and measures affecting the licence may also apply. If you receive a notice, read it and seek qualified advice: this guide does not assess individual cases.

Medicines, tiredness and other substances can impair driving even without exceeding any blood alcohol limit. Check the patient information leaflet and ask a doctor or pharmacist whether a treatment is compatible with driving. Do not rely on coffee, a shower or an estimated time for alcohol to wear off.

Revise the rules

Plan your journey home before the event: choose a driver who will not drink, take a taxi or public transport, or stay overnight. Do not rely on a cheap personal breathalyser as a legal or safety guarantee. Even an amount that seems small can impair reaction time, attention and risk assessment. If a new-driver friend has been drinking, offer a practical alternative and calmly stop them from getting behind the wheel.

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